Device and Method for Deployment of an Anchoring Device for Intervertebral Spinal Fusion

ABSTRACT

A device and methods for intervertebral spinal fusion of adjacent intervertebral bodies. An intervertebral spacer is positioned within a narrow disc space between adjacent intervertebral bodies of a patient. The spacer is arranged with upper and lower guides. The guides are adapted to simultaneously guide the deployment of upper and lower anchors of an anchoring device into their respective intervertebral bodies. The spacer is also adapted to lock the upper and lower anchors to the spacer in the deployed position.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This patent application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/997,350 filed on Aug. 19, 2020, which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/191,811, filed Nov. 15, 2018, which is a continuation-in-part of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/417,331, filed Jan. 27, 2017, which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/881,703, filed Oct. 13, 2015, which is a continuation-in-part application of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/718,514, filed May 21, 2015, which are each incorporated by reference in their entireties herein for all purposes.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates generally to intervertebral spacers for fusing adjacent vertebras, and more particularly to a device and methods for doing so.

BACKGROUND

Intervertebral spinal fusion is well known in the art. In the prior art, an intervertebral spacer is implanted between two adjacent intervertebral bodies. The spacer allows a surgeon to deposit bone graft between the problem vertebras in order to fuse the vertebras together. To achieve proper fusion, the implanted spacer must be securely anchored between the vertebras such that there is little to no movement once implanted. Protrusions arranged on the superior and inferior surfaces of the spacer provides a means to stabilize the spacer between the vertebras. However, it has been discovered that spacers stabilized in this way may still move due to the stress exerted on the implanted spacer when the patient moves. Other commonly employed stabilizing techniques include pedicle screws and rods. In this technique, pedicle screws are independently screwed into two or three spine segments. A short rod is then used to connect the pedicle screws to prevent motion at the segments that are being fused. However, this technique is time consuming because the pedicle screws need to be independently screwed into the vertebras. It also requires the surgeon to make large/numerous incisions in the patient to insert the pedicle screws. Because of these deficiencies in the prior art, there exists a need to provide a more effective and efficient way of stabilizing adjacent vertebras in the field of intervertebral spinal fusion.

SUMMARY

For the purpose of the following description and the appended claims, “proximal” and its inflected forms are defined as the part, portion, section, etc., of an object that is closest to the person using that object.

For the purpose of the following description and the appended claims, “distal” and its inflected forms are defined as the part, portion, section, etc., of an object that is furthest away to the person using that object.

The present invention provides a way to stabilize adjacent vertebras without some of the deficiencies of the prior art discussed above. In an illustrative embodiment, a spacer is provided with an upper guide and a lower guide. The upper and lower guides are adapted to guide the simultaneous deployment of a respective upper anchor and lower anchor of an anchoring device when force is applied thereto. More precisely, force is simultaneously applied to a proximal portion of the upper and lower anchors. The force simultaneously deploys the upper and lower anchors into their respective intervertebral bodies. The upper and lower anchors are constructed and dimensioned in such a way to pierce and penetrate into their respective vertebras. The combination of the anchors and the protrusions arranged on the surfaces of the spacer provides additional stabilization of the implanted spacer. These advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the following disclosure and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1A depicts a perspective view of an intervertebral spacer in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 1B depicts another perspective view of the intervertebral spacer of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 2A depicts a top view of the intervertebral spacer of FIGS. 1A and 1B;

FIG. 2B depicts a side view of the intervertebral spacer of FIGS. 1A and 1B;

FIG. 3A depicts one side of an anchor in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 3B depicts the other side of the anchor of FIG. 3A;

FIG. 4A depicts two anchors being loaded into the intervertebral spacer of FIGS. 1A and 1B;

FIG. 4B depicts the two anchors of FIG. 4A loaded into the intervertebral spacer of FIGS. 1A and 1B, the two anchors being in an undeployed state;

FIG. 5A depicts a perspective view of an implantation instrument in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention;

FIG. 5B depicts a cross-sectional view of the implantation instrument of FIG. 5A, the cross-sectional view depicting a narrower section and a wider section of the implantation instrument;

FIG. 5C depicts an exploded, cross-sectional view of the wider section of the implantation instrument of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 5D depicts a cross-sectional view of the implantation instrument gripping the lateral surfaces of the intervertebral spacer of FIGS. 1A and 1B;

FIG. 6A depicts the implantation instrument of FIG. 5A having deployed the anchors of FIG. 4A;

FIG. 6B depicts an exploded, top view of the deployed anchors of FIG. 6A;

FIGS. 6C and 6D depict an exploded, perspective view of the deployed anchors of FIG. 6A;

FIG. 7A-7C depict a spacer and anchor in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention, wherein the upper and lower anchors of the anchoring device form a single, unitary piece;

FIG. 8A-8C depict a spacer and anchor in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention, wherein the upper and lower anchors of the anchoring device are disposed entirely within the spacer;

FIG. 9A-9H depict an upper anchor and a lower anchor arranged on a drive plate in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 10 depicts a spacer having worm gear for deploying one or more anchors in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 depicts an implant according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 depicts a spacer body of the implant illustrated in FIG. 11

FIGS. 13 and 14 perspective views of the spacer body according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 15 and 16 depict the anchors of the implant illustrated in FIG. 11 .

FIG. 17 depicts a lateral view of the implant according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 depicts a perspective view of the implant of FIG. 11 .

FIG. 19 depict an actuation member according to one embodiment of the present invention.

FIGS. 20 and 21 depict a lateral view of the implant when the anchors are in an undeployed and deployed state.

FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate an instrument coupled to the implant when the anchors are in an undeployed and deployed state.

FIG. 24 depicts a top perspective view of an alternative spacer and anchor system in an undeployed state accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 25 depicts a top perspective view of the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 24 in a deployed state.

FIG. 26 depicts a side view of the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 24 in an undeployed state.

FIG. 27 depicts a side view of the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 24 in a deployed state.

FIG. 28 depicts a front perspective view of the spacer of FIG. 24 .

FIG. 29 depicts a top view of the spacer of FIG. 28 .

FIG. 30 depicts a top view of a carrier of the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 24 .

FIG. 31 depicts a side view of a carrier of the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 24 .

FIG. 32 depicts a side perspective view of an anchor of the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 24 .

FIG. 33 depicts a side perspective view of a revision instrument in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 34 depicts a side cross-sectional view of an alternative spacer and anchor system in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 35 depicts a cross-sectional, exploded view of the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 34 .

FIG. 36 depicts a top perspective view of a spacer in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 37 depicts a side perspective view of a carrier in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 38 depicts a top perspective view of a rotator in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 39 depicts a top perspective view of an anchor in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 40 depicts the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 34 including an inserter in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 41 depicts the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 34 including an inserter and threaded sleeve in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 42 depicts the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 34 including an inserter, threaded sleeve and key instrument prior to rotation of the rotator, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 43 depicts the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 34 including an inserter, threaded sleeve and key instrument following rotation of the rotator, in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 44 depicts a top perspective view of the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 34 .

FIG. 45 shows a side perspective view of a spacer and anchor system in accordance with some embodiments.

FIG. 46 show the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 45 with the anchors in a deployed condition.

FIG. 47 shows a rear perspective view of the spacer of FIG. 45 with the anchor omitted for clarity.

FIG. 48 shows a side view of the spacer of FIG. 45 .

FIG. 49 shows a top down cross-sectional view of the spacer of FIG. 45 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIGS. 1A and 1B depict perspective views of intervertebral spacer 100 in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention. Spacer 100 generally has a rectangular shape, but the present invention is not limited to such a shape. Spacer 100 can have any shape, size, or combination thereof to meet the needs of a spinal fusion candidate.

As depicted in FIGS. 1A and 1B, spacer 100 comprises superior surface 102, inferior surface 104, lateral surfaces 106 and 108, distal portion 110, and proximal portion 112. Inferior surface 104 is a mirror image of superior surface 102 and lateral surface 108 is a mirror image of lateral surface 106. Spacer 100 is preferably formed from titanium alloy but other biocompatible materials (e.g., polyetheretherketone (PEEK), other surgical grade metals, alloys, or a combination thereof) can also be used to form spacer 100.

Beginning at distal portion 110, spacer 100 is constructed to have a tapered end that narrows towards the distal most end. This design helps facilitate easier entry of spacer 100 into the narrow disc space arranged between two adjacent vertebral bodies.

To fuse the adjacent vertebras together, bone graft is used. For this purpose, the body of spacer 100 is provided with through-hole 114. The through-hole extends through the center of surfaces 102, 104, 106, and 108 and is adapted to receive the bone graft for fusing the adjacent vertebras. In the illustrative embodiment, through-hole 114 generally has a rectangular shape. However, those skilled in the art will appreciate after reading this disclosure that through-hole 114 can have any shape, size, or a combination thereof. As further depicted in FIGS. 1A and 1B, surfaces 102 and 104 are provided with a plurality of protrusions or teeth 116 to help prevent spacer 100 from expulsion after being implanted between the adjacent vertebras. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, after reading this disclosure, that teeth 116 can be angled in any number of degrees (e.g., 45°, 90°, etc.) and can have any number of orientations without departing from the scope of the present invention. Through-hole 114 and teeth 116 can be seen more clearly in FIGS. 2A and 2B.

Turning now to proximal portion 112, upper and lower guides are provided to respectively guide the deployment of upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120 into their respective vertebral bodies. The upper and lower anchors will be discussed in more detail below, with respect to FIGS. 3A and 3B. In the illustrative embodiment, the upper guide is characterized by an upper inclined surface 122 (e.g., a curvilinear surface, etc.) and an upper pair of oppositely positioned lateral recesses 124. Because the lower guide is a mirror image of the upper guide, the lower guide is also characterized by a lower inclined surface 126 and a lower pair of oppositely positioned lateral recesses 128. The upper and lower pair of lateral recesses 124 and 128 are dimensioned to respectively complement the arc, curvature, etc., of the upper and lower anchors. An advantage of recesses 124 and 128 is that they ensure that their respective anchors maintain a desired trajectory when impacted by an anchor driver. The recesses 124 and 128 also prevent their respective anchors from egressing out of spacer 100 when impacted by the anchor driver. These features and their advantages will be discussed in more detail below, with reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B.

Proximal portion 112 also comprises a pair of oppositely positioned lateral chamfers 130 and 132. Each of the lateral chamfers has a sloping edge and is positioned proximally to their respective locking recesses 134, 136, 138, and 140. As will be described in more detail below, with reference to FIGS. 6A-6D, the chamfer-recess combination is a mechanism that allows upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120 to be locked to spacer 100 after deployment. It will be appreciated by those skilled in the art, after reading this disclosure, that locking recesses 134, 136, 138, 140 could be detents in some embodiments and through-holes in other embodiments.

Proximal portion 112 further comprises lateral surfaces 142 and 144 that are respectively constructed with gripper recesses 146 and 148. The gripper recesses are dimensioned and arranged to receive corresponding ribs of an implantation instrument employed by a surgeon. The ribs are adapted to fit squarely into their corresponding recesses so that spacer 100 can be securely gripped by the surgeon. It should be noted that gripping the spacer with an implantation instrument serves at least two purposes. First, it enables the surgeon to more easily orient spacer 100 in a desired position within the narrow disc space of the adjacent vertebras. Secondly, it prevents spacer 100 from coming free from the implantation instrument while the surgeon is impacting the upper and lower anchors with an anchor driver. Although each of the lateral surfaces is depicted as having three gripping recesses, it will be appreciated by those skilled in the art that each of the lateral surfaces can have more or less gripper recesses than depicted. This feature of the present invention will be described in more detail below, with reference to FIGS. 5A-5D.

FIGS. 3A and 3B are perspective views of an anchor in accordance with an illustrative embodiment of the present invention. Since upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120 have substantially the same physical and functional characteristics, thus being interchangeable, the following discussion of FIGS. 3A and 3B will use the word “anchor” to describe both the upper and lower anchors. Further, it should be noted that upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120 (whether formed as independent pieces or as a single unitary piece) collectively define an anchoring device.

FIG. 3A depicts the surface of an anchor that is adapted to slide along an inclined surface of a guide (e.g., upper inclined surface 122 or lower inclined surface 126). In the illustrative embodiment, the anchor is constructed to have a curved or semi-curved surface that is contoured to be substantially the same as the inclined surface of the guide it slides on. The surface of the anchor is preferably smooth throughout its length in order to reduce the amount of friction drag produced when the surface slides along the inclined surface.

The anchor also comprises a pair of oppositely positioned lateral sides 302 and 304, which are adapted to slide into their respective lateral recesses (e.g., upper lateral recesses 124 or lower lateral recesses 128). The anchor is also constructed with a pair of flexible prongs 306 and 308, which respectively comprises lateral projections 310 and 312. The flexible prongs and lateral projections work in cooperation to lock the anchor to spacer 100 in a deployed position. The lateral sides, flexible prongs, and lateral projections of the anchor are also depicted in FIG. 3B.

To enable the anchor to penetrate a vertebral body, distal portion 314 of the anchor is tapered to form an edge. Since the anchor is made of titanium alloy, the distal portion of the anchor is sufficiently strong to pierce and penetrate through the endplate of the vertebral body. Although the anchor is preferably formed from titanium alloy, other biocompatible materials (e.g., polyetheretherketone (PEEK), other surgical grade metals, alloys, or a combination thereof) can be used to form the anchor.

It will be clear to those skilled in the art that the foregoing discussion of FIGS. 3A and 3B applies to both upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120.

FIG. 4A depicts upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120 being loaded into spacer 100. As discussed above, the upper guide of spacer 100 has an upper pair of oppositely positioned lateral recesses 124. Each lateral recess 124 is adapted to receive a respective one of lateral sides 302 and 304 of upper anchor 118. Similarly, the lower guide of spacer 100 has a lower pair of oppositely positioned lateral recesses 128 (shown more clearly in FIG. 1B). Each lateral recess 128 is adapted to receive a respective one of lateral sides 302 and 304 of lower anchor 120. Turning now to FIG. 4B, this figure depicts spacer 100 loaded with the upper and lower anchors. In FIG. 4B, upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120 are in an undeployed state and are disposed entirely within spacer 100. That is, no part of upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120 extend beyond the profile of teeth 116 arranged on spacer 100. In the loaded/undeployed state, spacer 100 is ready to be gripped by an implantation instrument for simultaneous deployment into their respective intervertebral bodies.

FIG. 5A is a perspective view of implantation instrument 500, which comprises, inter alia, housing 502, anchor driver 504, handle 506, and a pair of oppositely positioned grippers 508 and 510. As will be discussed in more detail below, with reference to FIGS. 5B-5D, anchor driver 504 can be advanced forwards or retracted backwards via handle 506 to respectively grip or release spacer 100.

FIG. 5B is a cross-sectional view of the implantation instrument of FIG. 5A. As shown in this view, housing 502 is divided into two sections namely, a narrower section 512 and a wider section 514. Anchor driver 504 is constructed to fit squarely into narrower section 512 with little or no lateral and radial movement, while the area of wider section 514 is dimensioned to accommodate the width of anchor driver 504 and a pair of adjacently positioned, oppositely bowed leaf springs 516 and 518.

In the configuration depicted in FIG. 5B, anchor driver 504 can be advanced forwards towards leaf springs 516 and 518 via handle 506. As the forward advancement causes anchor driver 504 to be wedged between leaf springs 516 and 518, their respective grippers 508 and 510 will begin to simultaneously pivot inward to clamp onto the lateral surfaces of spacer 100.

More precisely, and with reference to FIG. 5C, the forward advancement of anchor driver 504 causes gripper 508 to pivot inwardly about pivot point 520. This pivot action is a result of leaf spring 516 being compressed outwards towards the wall of housing 502 as anchor driver 504 engages the bowed portion of leaf spring 516. As gripper 508 pivots inwards, ribs 524 engage their respective gripper recess 146 (depicted in FIG. 1A) arranged on spacer 100. Likewise, gripper 510 will pivot inwardly about pivot point 522 in response to the forward advancement of the driver, resulting in ribs 526 engaging their respective gripper recess 148 (depicted in FIG. 1B). By means of the foregoing, spacer 100 can be securely gripped by implantation instrument 500, as depicted in FIG. 5D.

As depicted in FIG. 5D, the head of anchor driver 504 stops at or slightly before the distal end of housing 502 after gripping spacer 100. While spacer 100 is being gripped by implantation instrument 500, spacer 100 is positioned within the narrow disc space between adjacent vertebras. Continuing to grip spacer 100 with implantation instrument 500, the surgeon removes cap 530 and is now ready to impact handle 506 with a weighted object (e.g., hammer, mallet, etc.). In accordance with the illustrative embodiment, cap 530 has two functionalities. First, cap 530 when attached to handle 506 disallows forward movement of anchor driver 504 past a certain point namely, the distal end of housing 502. Secondly, cap 530 prevents inadvertent deployment of upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120 during positioning of spacer 100 within the adjacent vertebral bodies.

When the surgeon impacts handle 506 with a weighted object, anchor driver 504 is driven forwards into the proximal portion of upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120, thereby simultaneously deploying the anchors into their respective vertebras. The surgeon may impact handle 506 one or more times so that the anchors reach a desired depth within their vertebras, and so that the anchors engage the locking feature described in more detail below. Once upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120 is locked to spacer 100 in the deployed position, the surgeon can retract anchor driver 504 so that leaf springs 516 and 518 can return to their relaxed state. While returning to their relaxed state, grippers 508 and 510 will begin to pivot outwardly to disengage from their gripper recesses, thereby releasing spacer 100.

FIG. 6A depicts a perspective view of implantation instrument 500 in which driver anchor 504 has simultaneously deployed upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120. As discussed above, the head of anchor driver 504 is simultaneously driven into the proximal portion of upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120 as the surgeon impacts handle 506. This causes both the upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120 to independently slide along the upper inclined surface 122 and lower inclined surface 126, respectively. The upper and lower inclined surfaces respectively press against the surface of the upper and lower anchors (i.e., the surface depicted in FIG. 3A) to deploy the anchors into their respective vertebral bodies. FIGS. 6B-6D depict upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120 simultaneously deployed after being impacted by anchor driver 504. As shown in these figures, the distal ends of upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120 in the deployed state are radially extended outside of spacer 100. That is, the distal ends of upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120 extend past the height of teeth 116 of spacer 100 after being deployed.

From the foregoing discussion, it will be clear to those skilled in the art that upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120 are separate elements that slide independently of each other along their respective upper and lower guides. It will also be clear from the foregoing discussion that an advantage of using the upper and lower anchors is that they provide additional anchorage for stabilizing a spacer. In other words, not only is the spacer anchored to the intervertebral bodies via its teeth, the spacer is also provided with additional anchorage by the upper and lower anchors, since they extend past the profile of the teeth and therefore penetrating deeper into the intervertebral bodies.

Returning to FIGS. 6C and 6D, these figures depict upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120 locked to spacer 100 in a deployed position. Since upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120 are locked to spacer 100 in substantially the same way, the following discussion of FIGS. 6C and 6D will use the word “anchor” to describe both the upper and lower anchors.

As the anchor is impacted by driver 504, lateral projections 310 and 312 will respectively engage the sloping edge of lateral chamfers 130 and 132. Lateral chamfers 130 and 132 are depicted in the figures as being arranged proximally to locking recesses 134, 136, 138, and 140 of spacer 100. The pressure and force of the impact causes flexible prongs 306 and 308 to flex laterally inwardly. As lateral projections 310 and 312 past their respective lateral chamfers, flexible prongs 306 and 308 will return to a relaxed state, thereby causing lateral projections 310 and 312 to laterally extend into their corresponding locking recess 134, 136, 138, and 140. This locking feature prevents the anchors from disengaging from spacer 100 after being deployed into the vertebral bodies.

It will be clear to those skilled in the art, after reading this disclosure that numerous modification can be made to the illustrative embodiment without departing from the scope of the invention. For example, in one alternative embodiment, upper anchor 118 and lower anchor 120 can be constructed as a single unitary piece. FIGS. 7A-7C depict such an anchoring device.

As depicted in FIG. 7A, upper anchor 702 of anchoring device 700 comprises underside 704 that is adapted to press against upper inclined surface 706 of the upper guide arranged on spacer 100. Similarly, lower anchor 708 of anchoring device 700 comprises underside 710 that is adapted to press against lower inclined surface 712 of the lower guide arranged on spacer 100. As anchoring device 700 is advanced forwards, pressure causes the undersides to press against their respective inclined surfaces, which guides upper anchor 702 and lower anchor 708 to radially and simultaneously deploy into their respective vertebral bodies. As depicted in FIGS. 7B and 7C, upper anchor 702 and lower anchor 708 extend past the profile of teeth 714 to provide additional anchorage. Once the upper and lower anchors have been simultaneously deployed into their vertebra, locking cap 716 can be used to lock the anchors in their deployed position. Specifically, locking cap 716 is adapted to press the proximal end of anchoring device 700 to lock the anchoring device to spacer 100.

In another embodiment, as depicted in FIGS. 8A-8C, spacer 100 houses both upper anchor 802 and lower anchor 804. In other words, both the upper and lower anchors are disposed entirely within spacer 100 when the anchors are in a relaxed state. As shown in FIG. 8B, an internal drive screw 806 (i.e., an anchor drive) can be turned so that wedge 812 can be advanced forwards towards the bowed portion of both upper anchor 802 and lower anchor 804. Wedge 812 is forcibly advanced towards the bowed portion to simultaneously force upper anchor 802 and lower anchor 804 to extend through an opening arranged on superior surface 808 and inferior surface 810 of spacer 100. More precisely, as drive screw 806 is turned, wedge 812 abuts against the bowed portion of upper anchor 802 and lower anchor 804. As wedge 812 abuts against the bowed portion of the anchors, the inclined surface of wedge 812 slides along the surface of upper anchor 802 and lower anchor 804. The sliding motion applies pressure to the surfaces of the anchors, thereby forcing both upper anchor 802 and lower anchor 804 to radially extend outside of the openings of spacer 100 and into their respective intervertebral bodies.

In a further embodiment, as depicted in FIGS. 9A-9H, the anchoring device has a drive plate 906 from which upper anchor 902 and lower anchor 904 extend.

The drive plate of FIG. 9A includes through-hole 908 arranged at its central axis. The drive plate can be divided into four quadrants, with through-hole 908 being the origin point, like in a two-dimensional Cartesian plane. Upper anchor 902 extends from a first one of the quadrants (e.g., Quadrant I in a two-dimensional Cartesian plane), while lower anchor 904 extends from a second one of the quadrants (e.g., Quadrant III in the two-dimensional Cartesian plane), wherein the first and second quadrants are diagonally located from each other on drive plate 906. Although the anchors have been described as having a specific arrangement on drive plate 906, it will be clear to those skilled in the art after reading this disclosure that upper anchor 902 and lower anchor 904 can be arranged anywhere on the drive plate without departing from the scope of the present invention.

As further depicted in FIG. 9A, each of upper anchor 902 and lower anchor 906 has a pointed tip and a plurality of projections arranged on their lateral surfaces. The plurality of projections can be, for example, and without limitation, barbs that are angled away from the point in which the anchors penetrate into their respective vertebras. The barbs are advantageous because they make it difficult for the anchors to come loose, thus ensuring that the spacer is securely stabilized between the vertebras after implantation. FIG. 9A also depicts a pair of oppositely positioned grippers of holder 910 gripping onto the lateral surfaces of drive plate 906.

Turning now to FIG. 9B, while drive plate 906 is gripped by holder 910, a surgeon can position the grippers of holder 910 to also grip onto endplate 912 of spacer 900. Once endplate 912 is gripped by the surgeon, a driver 914 can be inserted into holder 910, which passes through through-hole 908 of drive plate 906. The driver engages one end of drive screw 916 (shown in FIG. 9C) housed within spacer 900. Once the driver has engaged the drive screw, the surgeon can turn driver 914 so that drive screw 916 can be threaded into the body of wedge 918. This causes wedge 918 to move backwards towards the proximal end of spacer 900, which in turn causes superior surface 920 and inferior surface 922 of the spacer to slide along the inclined surface of wedge 918. This can be seen more clearly in FIGS. 9C and 9D. As superior surface 920 and inferior surface 922 radially extend in opposite directions of each other, upper anchor 902 and lower anchor 904 engage upper guide 924 and lower guide 926 of spacer 900. As shown in FIG. 9D, the tips of upper anchor 902 and lower anchor 904 do not extend past the profile of teeth 928 of spacer 900, even after superior surface 920 and inferior surface 922 have been fully extended.

Once the superior and inferior surfaces of spacer 900 have been fully extended, the surgeon can now retract driver 914 and insert pull screw 930 (i.e., anchor driver) as shown in FIG. 9E. Pull screw 930 is physically adapted to be inserted through through-hole 908 and into the threaded hole of drive screw 916. Pull screw 930 can now be threaded to advance drive plate 906 towards the proximal end of spacer 900, which causes upper anchor 902 and lower anchor 904 to respectively slide along upper guide 924 and lower guide 926 as the drive plate is advanced towards the proximal end of the spacer. As upper anchor 902 and lower anchor 904 slide along their respective guides, the anchors simultaneously and radially extend away from spacer 900 and into their respective intervertebral bodies. Pull screw 930 is threaded by the surgeon until drive plate 906 is fully seated against endplate 912. Not only does threading pull screw 930 in this way fully deploy the anchors into their respective intervertebral bodies, it also locks the anchors to spacer 900 in a deployed position, as shown in FIGS. 9F-9H.

FIG. 10 depicts a spacer-anchor combination in accordance with an alternative embodiment of the present invention. More specifically, the figure depicts spacer 1000, a plurality of upper anchors 1002, worm 1004, and gear 1006. In accordance with this embodiment, the worm is physically adapted to turn the gear, but the gear cannot turn the worm. This is because the angle on the worm is so shallow that, when the gear tries to spin it, the friction between the gear and the worm holds the worm in place. With this in mind, a surgeon can implant spacer 1000 in the disc space of adjacent vertebras. The surgeon can then use a tool to turn worm 1004 in order to rotate gear 1006 in a particular direction. As the gear rotates, upper anchors 1002 are simultaneously deployed into an intervertebral body. Once deployed, pressure from adjacent vertebras compressing down onto gear 1006 will not cause the gear to rotate. This is because, as discussed above, the angle on the worm is so shallow that the friction between the gear and the worm essentially locks the worm in place. Accordingly, upper anchors 1002 will be locked in their deployed position until worm 1004 is operated.

FIGS. 11-23 disclose yet another embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 11 illustrates a spinal implant 2000 that includes a spacer body 2002, a first anchor 2004, a second anchor 2006 and an actuation member 2008. The spacer body 2002 as illustrated in FIGS. 12-14 in greater detail includes an anterior portion 2010, a posterior portion 2012, an upper surface 2014, a lower surface 2016 opposing the upper surface 2014, a first lateral surface 2018 and a second lateral surface 2020. The spacer body 2002 also includes a channel 2022 that extends from the anterior portion 2010 to the posterior portion 2012. There is also a through hole 2024 that extends from the upper surface 2014 to the lower surface 2016. These features can be more clearly seen in FIGS. 13 and 14 .

The upper surface 2014 and the lower surface 2016 of the spacer body 2002 may also be configured to include protrusions such teeth, ridges, and/or spikes to grip the adjacent vertebral bodies. The through-hole 2024 extending from the upper surface to the lower surface of the spacer may be configured and dimensioned to be in any geometric shape, i.e. rectangular, elliptical, or irregular. The spacer body 2002 is configured with a length, a height and a width, wherein the length of the spacer body 2002 is greater than the width. However, in other embodiments, the spacer body 2002 may be configured so that the width is greater than the length.

The anterior portion 2010 of the spacer body 2002 may be configured to be tapered for ease of insertion. The channel 2022 that extends from the anterior portion 2010 to the posterior portion 2012 has a greater diameter at a posterior portion of the spacer body 2002 than the anterior portion 2010 of the spacer body 2002. The channel 2022 extends the length of the implant so that the insertion of the implant into the intervertebral space may be accomplished anteriorly and/or posteriorly. The spacer body 2002 also includes features to retain the actuation member 2008. In the preferred embodiment, the inner surface of the posterior portion includes actuation member retention features such as notches and/or grooves which engage with a head of the actuation member 2008. It should be noted that in other embodiments the channel 2022 may be configured with ratcheting teeth that engage with the actuation member. In another alternative embodiment, the channel 2022 may include threads allowing the actuation member to translate within the implant. The translation of the actuation member then causes the anchors which are coupled to the actuation member to be guided into the adjacent vertebral bodies. Additionally, in another embodiment, the implant is provided with ramps, having similarly shaped anchors 2004, 2006. The actuation method involves pulling the anchors 2004, 2006 toward the ramp with an actuation member that is a shouldered drive screw. The shouldered drive screw is moved anteriorly or posteriorly with a nut attached to the spacer body.

The posterior portion 2012 of the spacer body 2002 includes slots 2026 for receiving an instrument/holder as illustrated in FIG. 20 . The first and second slots 2026 are configured to extend from the posterior surface of the spacer body 2002 to the first and second lateral surfaces of the spacer body 2002 respectively. The first and second lateral surfaces 2018, 2020 also include a first window 2028 and a second window 2030 which are configured to extend from the first and second lateral exterior surface to lateral inner surfaces of the spacer body 2002. The first and second windows 2028, 2030 are also configured to receive a first protrusion 2032 and a second protrusion 2032 of the anchors 2004 and 2006, which are discussed in greater detail with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16 . Specifically, anchors 2004 and 2006 are positioned on the inner lateral walls of the spacer body 2002 within grooves 2029, 2031 configured on the inner surfaces of the first and second lateral walls.

FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate the anchors 2004, 2006 in greater detail. The anchors 2004 and 2006 have substantially the same physical and functional characteristics. Each of the anchors 2004, 2006 are with a rhomboid profile with a teeth cut. On a first side of each anchor is a protrusion 2032 that engages with the window in the spacer body 2002. On a second side of each anchor 2004, 2006 are linear cuts 2034 of a thread profile. The cuts 2034 are only interrupted by a chamfer which brings the teeth 2036 to a sharp edge. In the preferred embodiment, the anchors 2004, 2006 are configured as uncurled half-nuts. The angle between the thread profile trajectory and side profile of the anchors 2004, 2006 match the helix angle of the actuator member 2008. It should be noted that in other embodiments the anchors 2004, 2006 may be configured with different types of thread profiles that correspond to the actuator member. The anchors 2004 and 2006 once positioned within the spacer body 2002, are retained within the spacer body 2002 as the protrusions 2032 are fitted in to the windows 2028, 2030 of the lateral walls of the spacer body 2002, as shown in FIGS. 17 and 18 . To enable the anchor to penetrate a vertebral body, distal portion of the anchor is tapered to form an edge. Since the anchors are made of titanium alloy, the distal portion of the anchors are sufficiently strong to pierce and penetrate through the endplate of the vertebral body. Although the anchors are preferably formed from titanium alloy, other biocompatible materials (e.g., polyetheretherketone (PEEK), other surgical grade metals, alloys, or a combination thereof) can be used to form the anchor.

The first and second anchors 2004, 2006 are separate elements that may be configured to move independently of each other along their grooves/respective guides 2029, 2031. It will also be clear from the foregoing discussion that an advantage of using the first and second anchors 2004, 2006 is that they provide additional anchorage for stabilizing a spacer.

In operation as the anchors 2004, 2006 are moved by rotating the actuator member 2008, the protrusions 2032 positioned within the windows 2028, 2030 limit the anchors 2004, 2006 motion to a maximum distance. It should be noted that the windows 2028, 2030 may be configured to increase or decrease the amount of the maximum distance the anchors 2004, 2006 may be moved into the vertebral bodies. The angles of the windows 2028, 2030 may also be designed to provide greater or lesser angulation of the anchors 2004, 2006 when actuated into the vertebral bodies.

FIG. 18 illustrates a perspective view of the implant 2000. As shown, the spacer body 2002 includes a through hole 2024 the extends from the upper surface to the lower surface of the implant and a first groove 2029 and a second groove 2031 that extend at an angle from the lower surface to the upper surface, as illustrated in FIG. 12 . The grooves 2029, 2031 are configured to receive each one of the anchors 2004, 2006. The first and second grooves 2029, 2031 act as guides so that the first groove 2029 guides the first anchor 2004 into one vertebral body and the second groove 2031 guides the second anchor 2006 into the another vertebral body. The first and second grooves 2029, 2031 are configured at an angle between the vertical and horizontal axis of the spacer body 2002. The first and second windows 2028, 2030 of the spacer are positioned within the first and second groove 2029, 2031 on the first and second lateral inner surfaces.

FIG. 19 shows the actuator member 2008, in the one embodiment which is a lead screw that is retained within the spacer body 2002 by pressing the screw past interfering lips in both the screw and spacer body 2002. In this embodiment the lead screw is provided with an acme thread, however most any thread profile may be used so long as the anchors 2004, 2006 have a corresponding profile. The actuation member 2008 has driving features at both ends, such as a tri-lobe and is retained within the inner walls of the posterior portion of the implant. When the actuation member 2008 is rotated, the actuation member does not translate in the longitudinal direction. However, in other embodiments, the actuation member 2008 may be configured to translate in the longitudinal direction.

FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrates the instrument 2038 coupled to the implant in one embodiment of the invention. FIG. 22 specifically illustrates the implant and the anchors in an undeployed state and FIG. 23 illustrates the anchors 2004, 2006 in a deployed state. The instrument 2038 has a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end is configured to couple to the implant through gripping elements. The gripping elements are configured to be attached to the slots provided on the lateral surfaces of the spacer body 2002. The instrument 2038 also includes a driver element that is positioned between the gripping elements and extends from the proximal end to the distal end of the implant. The driver element is actuated by an actuation knob positioned at the proximal end of the instrument 2038. When the actuation knob is rotated in a first direction, the driver element rotates the actuation member 2008 of the implant 2000 thereby causing the anchors 2004, 2006 to move and engage with the vertebral bodies. When the actuation knob is rotated in a second direction, the driver element rotates the actuation member 2008 of the implant in a second direction, thereby causing the anchors 2004, 2006 to move to disengage with the adjacent vertebral bodies and be positioned within the spacer body 2002 of the implant. The gripping elements of the instrument 2038 are operated by the gripping knob. When the gripping knob is rotated in a first direction, the gripping elements are grip the lateral slots of the implant. When the gripping knob is rotated in a second direction, the gripping elements release the connection with the implant by loosening the grip on the lateral slots of the implant.

Now turning back to FIGS. 11, 20, and 21 , the use and operation of the implant will be discussed in greater detail. The implant 2000 is positioned within the intervertebral space using the holder/instrument 2038, each one of the anchors 2004, 2006 is configured to be deployed with the rotation of the actuation member 2008 (in this case, clockwise) using the tri-lobe driver. The rotation of the actuation member 2008 draws the anchors 2004, 2006 proximally which also drives them up the grooves 2029, 2031 of the spacer body. This can be reversed by turning the actuation member 2008 the other way. Specifically, the anchors 2004, 2006 are moved or translated into the corresponding vertebral bodies when the actuation member 2008 is rotated in a first direction. When the actuation member 2008 is rotated in a second direction, the anchors 2004, 2006 are moved to be positioned back within the spacer body 2002. In one embodiment, as the actuation member 2008 is rotated, one anchor 2004 is guided towards the upper vertebral body and the second anchor 2006 is guided towards the lower vertebral body. The first and second anchors 2004, 2006 are guided simultaneously when the actuation member 2008 is actuated. However, in other embodiments, the first and second anchors 2004, 2006 may be moved independently of each other with one actuation member 2008. In another embodiment, there may be provided with at least two actuation members that engage with each one of the anchors, thereby enabling each one of the anchors to be independently moved with respect to the other anchor.

As illustrated in FIG. 11 , each of the anchors 2004, 2006 are configured to mate and correspond with the threads of the actuation member. As the actuation member is rotated, the threads of the actuation member 2008 engage the partial threads of the anchors 2004, 2006, applying force on the anchors 2004, 2006. The force applied by the actuation member 2008 causes the anchors 2004, 2006 to move within the respective grooves 2029, 2031 of the inner walls of the spacer body 2002. The grooves 2029, 2031 guide each of the anchors 2004, 2006 as force is applied on the anchors, towards the upper and lower vertebral bodies.

The anchors 2004, 2006 are limited in movement by the protrusions 2032 positioned within the windows 2030 of the lateral walls. In some embodiments, the windows 2030 can be configured with a radius and/or different angles thereby provided varying movement of the anchors in to the vertebral bodies. Additionally, the actuation member 2008 may be driven from the other end using the smaller driving feature through the hole in the anterior surface of the spacer body 2002. In other contemplated embodiments, the actuation member 2008 rather than being rotated can be translated in a longitudinal axis from a posterior portion of the implant to the anterior portion of the implant causing the anchors 2004, 2006 to be deployed into the adjacent vertebral bodies. In another embodiment, the actuation member 2008 can be ratcheting instrument which ratchets the anchors into the adjacent vertebral bodies.

In some embodiments, an alternative spacer and anchor system is provided, as shown in FIGS. 24-33 . The alternative spacer and anchor system provides a number of advantages. In particular, it comes pre-assembled, such that it is easy and quick to insert. Furthermore, the alternative spacer and anchor system is easy to revise and remove if necessary via a threaded tube. Additional details of these advantages are discussed below.

FIG. 24 depicts a top perspective view of an alternative spacer and anchor system in an undeployed state accordance with some embodiments. The spacer and anchor system comprises a spacer 2100 and a carrier 2150 received in a slot 2130 formed in the spacer 2100. An upper anchor 2118 is attached to an upper post 2162 of the carrier 2150, while a lower anchor 2120 is attached to a lower post 2164 (shown in FIG. 31 ) of the carrier 2150. The carrier 2150 is advantageously capable of translating along the slot 2130 of the spacer 2100 via impaction. As the carrier 2150 translates, this causes the upper anchor 2118 to be guided along inner recesses or tracks 2124, 2126 (shown in FIG. 28 ) of the spacer 2100 and the lower anchor 2120 to be guided along inner recesses or tracks 2134, 2136 of the spacer 2100, thereby causing deployment of the upper and lower anchors 2118, 2120.

As shown in FIG. 24 , the spacer 2100 comprises a superior surface 2102, an inferior surface 2104, a first side surface 2106, second side surface 2108, a leading or distal portion 2110 and a trailing or proximal portion 2112. The superior surface 2102 and inferior surface 2104 each comprise protrusions in the forms of ridges, pyramids, or teeth 2116 that are designed engage adjacent vertebra. A through hole 2114 is formed through the superior surface 2102 and the inferior surface 2104 and is designed to receive bone growth material, such as graft material.

As shown in FIG. 24 , the first side surface 2106 and the second side surface 2108 each include a recess 2144 formed therein. Within each of the recesses 2144, one or more gripping holes 2146 are provided. Each of the gripping holes 2146 is configured to receive a portion of an insertion instrument (e.g., a fork, tine or other protrusion). The insertion instrument can be used to deliver the spacer 2100 to a desired position within a disc space.

As shown in FIG. 24 , the leading or distal portion 2110 of the spacer 2100 comprises a tapered nose. The tapered nose can advantageously help to distract a disc space as the spacer 2100 is inserted therein, thereby easing insertion of the spacer 2100. The distal portion 2110 may also include an opening 2119. In addition, the trailing or proximal portion 2112 can comprise a slot 2130, shown best in FIG. 29 . A carrier 2150, having an upper anchor 2118 and a lower anchor 2120 attached thereto, is configured to be received and translate along the slot 2130. The spacer 2100 includes a pair of upper recesses 2124, 2126 (shown in FIG. 25 ) that serve as guides or tracks for the upper anchor 2118. Likewise, the spacer 2100 includes a pair of lower recesses 2134, 2136 (shown in FIG. 24 ) that serve as guides or tracks for the lower anchor 2120. As the carrier 2150 translates along the slot 2130, the upper anchor 2118 is guided along the upper recesses 2124, 2126 and is deployed upwardly and outwardly from the body of the spacer 2100. Likewise, the lower anchor 2120 is guided along the lower recesses 2134, 2136 and is deployed downwardly and outwardly from the body of the spacer 2100.

The carrier 2150 is configured to be received in the slot 2130 formed in the proximal portion 2112 of the spacer 2100. The carrier 2150 includes a leading or front end 2152 and a trailing or rear end 2154. The carrier 2150 is configured to enter the slot 2130 via its front end 2152. As the carrier 2150 enters the slot 2130, inner sidewalls 2136, 2138 of the spacer 2100 (shown in FIG. 29 ) splay open to receive the carrier 2150 therein. Impaction of the carrier's rear end 2154 causes the carrier 2150 to translate within the slot 2130, thereby causing deployment of the upper and lower anchors 2118, 2120. In some embodiments, the carrier 2150 comprises an upper post 2162 and a lower post 2164, as shown in FIGS. 30 and 31 . The upper post 2162 is configured to receive an upper anchor 2118, while the lower post 2164 is configured to receive a lower anchor 2120. In addition, in some embodiments, the carrier 2150 comprises a threaded portion 2158. As will be discussed in further detail below, the threaded portion 2158 advantageously allows for easy revision and removal of the spacer and anchor system if desired via a threaded tubular instrument. The threaded tubular instrument advantageously re-splays the inner sidewalls 2136, 2138 of the spacer 2100 (shown in FIG. 29 ) if desired, thereby accommodating retraction of the upper and lower anchors 2118, 2120 if desired.

FIG. 25 depicts a top perspective view of the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 24 in a deployed state. From this view, one can see the trailing or proximal portion 2112 of the spacer 2100, which includes the upper recesses 2124, 2126 that serve as a guide or track for the upper anchor 2118 and lower recesses 2134, 2136 that serve as a guide or track for the lower anchor 2120. In this figure, the carrier 2150 has been pushed or impacted further into the slot 2130 of the spacer 2100, such that the upper anchor 2118 is deployed above the superior surface 2102 of the spacer 2100 and the lower anchor 2120 is deployed below the inferior surface 2104 of the spacer 2100. Advantageously, the deployed upper anchor 2118 is curved and configured to engage an upper vertebra, while the deployed lower anchor 2120 is curved and configured to engage a lower vertebra.

FIG. 26 depicts a side view of the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 24 in an undeployed state. From this view, one can see how far the carrier 2150 extends outwardly from the proximal portion 2112 of the spacer 2100 prior to deployment of the upper and lower anchors 2118, 2120. As the carrier 2150 is impacted, this causes deployment of the upper and lower anchors 2118, 2120, and reduces the overall length of the spacer and anchor system.

FIG. 27 depicts a side view of the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 24 in a deployed state. From this view, one can see how less of the carrier 2150 extends outwardly from the proximal portion 2112 of the spacer 2100 following impaction of the carrier 2150. In addition, one can see how the upper anchor 2118 extends well above the superior surface 2102 of the spacer, while the lower anchor 2120 extends well below the inferior surface 2104 of the spacer upon their deployment. In some embodiments, the overall system including the spacer 2100, carrier 2150 and attached anchors 2118, 2120 will all remain in a disc space of the patient.

FIG. 28 depicts a front perspective view of the spacer of FIG. 24 . The spacer 2100 comprises a superior surface 2102, an inferior surface 2104, a first side surface 2106 and a second side surface 2108. In addition, as shown in the figure, the spacer 2100 comprises a slot 2130 for receiving a carrier 2150 (shown in FIG. 30 ) therein. The slot 2130 is bordered by a pair of inner sidewalls 2138, 2140 (shown in FIG. 29 ) that are capable of splaying to receive and secure the carrier 2150 therein. Each of the sidewalls 2138, 2140 includes inner recesses that form guides or tracks for the upper and lower anchors 2118, 2120. As shown in FIG. 28 , inner sidewall 2138 includes an upper recess 2124 and a lower recess 2134, while inner sidewall 2140 includes an upper recess 2126 and a lower recess 2136. The pair of upper recesses 2124, 2126 form a guide for upper anchor 2118, while the pair of lower recesses 2134, 2136 form a guide for lower anchor 2120.

FIG. 29 depicts a top view of the spacer of FIG. 28 . The features of the slot 2130 and its adjacent inner sidewalls 2138, 2140 of the spacer 2100 are readily apparent. In some embodiments, inner sidewall 2138 comprises an outer tapered surface 2134, while inner sidewall 2140 comprises an outer tapered surface 2136. As the carrier 2150 enters the slot 2130, tapered surfaces 2174, 2176 on the carrier (shown in FIG. 30 ) will engage with the outer tapered surfaces 2134, 2136, thereby causing the inner sidewalls 2138, 2140 to splay as the carrier 2150 is translated. As shown in FIG. 29 , beyond each of the outer tapered surfaces 2134, 2136 is a protruding locking surface 2135, 2137. As the carrier 2150 (shown in FIG. 30 ) translates in the slot 2130 beginning with the front end 2152, the inner sidewalls 2138, 2140 of the spacer 2100 will splay. Advantageously, as the carrier 2150 translates further, initial locking surfaces 2178, 2179 of the carrier 2150 will move past the protruding locking surfaces 2135, 2137 of the spacer 2100, thereby preventing backout of the carrier 2150 once in the slot 2130 of the spacer 2100. As the carrier 2150 translates even further (e.g., to deploy the anchors 2118, 2120), corner locking surfaces 2188, 2189 of the carrier 2150 will move past the protruding locking surfaces 2135, 2137, thereby preventing backout of the carrier 2150 and undesired retraction of the anchors 2118, 2120. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 29 , the protruding locking surfaces 2135, 2137 of the spacer 2100 advantageously prevent undesired backout of the carrier 2150 by engaging with surfaces of the carrier 2150.

FIG. 30 depicts a top view of a carrier of the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 24 . The carrier 2150 comprises a leading or front end 2152 and a trailing or rear end 2154. Adjacent the front end 2152, which is the first part of the carrier 2150 to enter the slot 2130 of the spacer 2100, is a cylindrical front portion 2172. Beyond the cylindrical front portion are the tapered surfaces 2174, 2176, which are designed to engage the outer tapered surfaces 2134, 2136 of the spacer 2100 to initiate the splaying of the inner sidewalls 2138, 2140 of the spacer 2100. The tapered surfaces 2174, 2176 are positioned adjacent initial locking surfaces 2178, 2179 of the carrier 2150, which are designed to retain the carrier 2150 within the spacer 2100 (as discussed above) once the carrier 2150 has translated far enough along the slot 2130 of the spacer 2100. As shown in FIG. 30 , the carrier 2150 further comprises a tapered mid-section 2156 formed of tapered sidewalls. The tapered mid-section 2156 advantageously aids in the continuous splaying of the inner sidewalls 2138, 2140 of the spacer 2100 as the carrier 2150 is translated therethrough. Note that as the carrier 2150 is translated further into the spacer 2100, upper and lower anchors 2118 and 2120 that are attached to upper and lower posts 2162, 2164 (shown in FIG. 31 ) begin to be deployed beyond the body of the spacer 2100. Following deployment of the anchors 2118, 2120, corner locking surfaces 2188, 2189 of the carrier 2150 can engage the protruding locking surfaces 2135, 2137 of the spacer 2100, thereby reducing the risk of backout of the carrier and the deployed anchors. To translate the carrier 2150 within the spacer 2100, the rear end 2154 of the carrier 2150 can be impacted via a tamp or other instrument.

As shown in FIG. 30 , adjacent the rear end 2154 of the carrier 2150 is a threaded portion 2158. The purpose of the threaded portion 2158 is to provide a surface upon which a removal or revision instrument 2180 (shown in FIG. 33 ) can engage. The revision instrument 2180 includes inner threads 2184 that can mate with the threaded portion 2158 of the carrier 2150. As the revision instrument 2180 is mateably threaded onto the threaded portion 2158 of the carrier 2150, a tapered surface 2186 of the revision instrument 2180 can engage with the tapered surfaces 2134, 2136 of the spacer 2100, thereby causing the inner sidewalls 2138, 2140 to re-splay. With the sidewalls 2138, 2140 splayed open, the carrier 2150 and its attached anchors 2118, 2120 are free to be retracted and withdrawn from deployment. Accordingly, the spacer and anchor system advantageously provides a revision system capable of retracting anchors via the threaded portion 2158 of the carrier 2150 and the revision instrument 2180. Should a surgeon want to retract the deployed anchors for any reason, the present system provides a means to do so with ease, using a single revision instrument 2180.

FIG. 31 depicts a side view of a carrier of the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 24 . From this view, one can see the upper post 2162 and the lower post 2164 of the carrier 2150, which retain the upper and lower anchors 2118, 2120.

FIG. 32 depicts a side perspective view of an anchor of the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 24 . The anchor is an upper anchor 2118, though one skilled in the art will appreciate that the lower anchor 2120 includes similar features. The upper anchor 2118 comprises a curved body having a pair of tracks 2127, 2129 on opposing lateral sides. As the carrier 2150 is translated in the slot 2130 of the spacer 2100, the track 2127 is configured to extend into inner recess 2124, while track 2129 is configured to extend into inner recess 2126 (shown in FIG. 25 ). The upper anchor 2118 comprises a carrier hole 2128 for receiving an upper post 2162 of the carrier 2150.

FIG. 33 depicts a side perspective view of a revision instrument in accordance with some embodiments. The revision instrument 2180 comprises a handle 2182 attached to a tubular body having a hollow, cannulated interior. On an opposite end of the handle 2182 is a tapered surface 2186. As noted above, the tapered surface 2186 advantageously engages outer tapered surfaces 2134, 2136 of the spacer 2100 (shown in FIG. 29 ), thereby causing the inner sidewalls 2138, 2140 of the spacer 2100 to re-splay as part of a desired revision. In addition, the revision instrument 2180 comprises inner threads 2184 that are capable of engaging the threaded portion 2158 of the carrier 2150, to further assist in revision if desired.

In some embodiments, an inserter instrument can be provided to deliver the spacer and anchor system into a desired disc space. The inserter instrument can include forks or tines that grip the gripping holes 2146 formed on the side of the spacer. In some embodiments, the inserter instrument is cannulated so that other instruments, such as a tamp, can be received therein. The tamp can be used to impact the rear end 2154 of the carrier 2150, thereby causing the carrier 2150 to translate within the slot 2130 of the spacer 2100. As the carrier 2150 translates, upper and lower anchors 2118, 2120 attached to the carrier are guided along the recesses within the spacer 2100 and deployed outwardly from the spacer.

An alternative spacer and anchor system is illustrated and described with respect to FIGS. 34-44 . The spacer and anchor system advantageously provides a spacer that is independent from a carrier for deploying anchors. With this configuration, the spacer can advantageously be used on its own, or with the carrier and anchors attached to it. In addition, the spacer and anchor system in FIGS. 34-44 provides a novel means to secure the anchors once deployed via a rotator. Furthermore, the spacer and anchor system in FIGS. 34-44 is provided with a means for revision and removal if desired. All of these advantages are discussed below.

FIG. 34 depicts a side cross-sectional view of an alternative spacer and anchor system in accordance with some embodiments. The spacer and anchor system comprises a spacer 2200, a carrier 2250 attached to an upper anchor 2218 and a lower anchor 2220, and a rotator 2260. The spacer 2200 is configured to fit into a disc space. The carrier 2250, which is independent from the spacer 2200, is attachable to an upper anchor 2218 and a lower anchor 2220. The carrier 2250 is configured to translate into a slot 2230 (shown in FIG. 35 ) of the spacer 2200. As the carrier 2250 translates, the upper anchor 2218 and the lower anchor 2220 are guided through recesses (e.g., such as recesses 2226 and 2236 shown in FIG. 34 ) and deployed outwardly from the body of the spacer 2200. Following deployment of the anchors 2218, 2220, the rotator 2260 can be rotated to prevent backout of the anchors 2218, 2220 from deployment, as will be discussed in more detail below.

The spacer 2200 comprises a superior surface 2202, an inferior surface 2204, a distal portion 2210 and a proximal portion 2212. In some embodiments, the superior surface 2202 and inferior surface 2204 include ridges, pyramids or teeth 2216 to engage adjacent vertebrae. As shown in FIG. 34 , the distal portion 2210 of the spacer 2200 comprises a chamfered nose. Advantageously, the chamfered nose aids in distraction of vertebrae during insertion, thereby easing insertion of the spacer 2200 into a disc space. The proximal portion 2212 of the spacer 2200 comprises a slot 2230 (shown in FIG. 35 ). The slot 2230 is capable of receiving a carrier 2250 with anchors 2218, 2220 therein. To guide the anchors 2218, 2220, the spacer 2200 includes one or more recesses. For example, as shown in FIG. 34 , the spacer 2200 comprises an upwardly curved inner recess 2226 for guiding the upper anchor 2218, as well as a downwardly curved inner recess 2236 for guiding the lower anchor 2220 as the carrier 2250 is translated through the slot 2230. In some embodiments, the spacer 2200 includes a pair of upper recesses that serve as a track to guide the upper anchor 2218 and a pair of lower recesses that serve as a track to guide the lower anchor 2220, similar to the system shown in FIG. 25 .

The carrier 2250 comprises a translatable body having an upper retainer 2252 for retaining the upper anchor 2218 and a lower retainer 2254 for retaining the lower anchor 2220. In some embodiments, the carrier 2250 is independent and detached from the body of the spacer 2200. The carrier 2250 is capable of translating in a slot 2230 of the spacer 2200. As the carrier 2250 translates therein, anchors 2218, 2220 attached to the carrier 2250 are deployed outwardly from the body of the spacer 2200. In some embodiments, the carrier 2250 comprises a rear threaded portion 2258. The rear threaded portion 2258 is capable of being engaged via a threaded sleeve 2292 (shown in FIG. 43 ). In some embodiments, the threaded sleeve 2292 provides a means for impaction of the carrier 2250, thereby allowing for translation of the carrier 2250 and deployment of the anchors 2218, 2220.

The upper anchor 2218 and lower anchor 2220 are each attachable to the carrier 2250 via the upper retainer 2252 and lower retainer 2254. In some embodiments, the anchors 2218, 2220 are each curved and capable of digging into bone members. The anchors 2218, 2220 are capable of being translated via the carrier 2250 into deployment.

In addition to the features described above, the spacer and anchor system comprises a novel rotator 2260. The rotator 2260 is configured to attach to the carrier 2250 via its trailing end 2268 (shown in FIG. 38 ). As the carrier 2250 translates, the rotator 2260 is also configured to translate and anchors 2218, 2220 are deployed. As the anchors 2218, 2220 are deployed, the rotator 2260 can be rotated such that engagement walls 2264, 2266 of the rotator 2260 abut the anchors 2218, 2220, thereby reducing the risk of inadvertent back out of the anchors 2218, 2220. Furthermore, as the rotator 2260 is rotated, wings of a lead wall 2262 of the rotator 2260 (shown in FIGS. 38 and 42 ) can be received in locking slots 2208 (shown in FIG. 41 ) of the spacer 2200, thereby securing the carrier, rotator and spacer.

FIG. 35 depicts a cross-sectional, exploded view of the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 34 . From this view, one can see each of the components before they are assembled. The spacer 2200 comprises a distal portion 2210 and a proximal portion 2212. A slot 2230 extends through the proximal portion 2212 of the spacer 2200. A carrier 2250 is configured to translate along the slot 2230 to cause deployment of anchors attached to the carrier 2250.

The carrier 2250 comprises an upper retainer 2252 and a lower retainer 2254. The upper retainer 2252 is configured to receive an upper anchor 2218, while the lower retainer 2254 is configured to receive a lower anchor 2220.

The rotator 2260 comprises a leading end 2269 and a trailing end 2268. The leading end 2269 is configured to extend first into the spacer 2200. The trailing end 2268 is configured to be received in an aperture or opening 2255 of the carrier 2250 (shown in FIG. 37 ), such that the rotator 2260 is attached to the carrier 2250. Between the leading end 2269 and the trailing end 2268 is a lead wall 2262. In its upright, non-rotated position shown in FIG. 35 , the lead wall 2262 comprises an upper wing 2265 and a lower wing 2267 that rise above and below, respectively, the rest of the rotator 2260. Upon rotation of the rotator 2260, the upper wing 2265 will be received in a first locking slot 2208 of the spacer 2200 (shown in FIG. 41 ), while the lower wing 2267 will be received in a second locking slot of the spacer 2200, thereby securing the carrier 2250 to the spacer 2200. In some embodiments, a pair of engagement walls 2264, 2266 are positioned adjacent to the lead wall 2262. The engagement walls 2264, 2266 are configured such that upon rotation of the rotator 2260, the engagement walls 2264, 2266 engage the deployed anchors 2218, 2220, thereby reducing the risk of inadvertent back-out of the deployed anchors 2218, 2220.

FIG. 36 depicts a top perspective view of a spacer in accordance with some embodiments. From this view, one can see how the spacer 2200 includes a graft hole 2214 that extends through a superior and inferior surface of the spacer 2200. Furthermore, one can see how the spacer 2200 includes a slot 2230 for receiving the carrier 2250 (shown in FIG. 37 ) therein. Bordering the slot 2230 are adjacent sidewalls, each including recesses for guiding the upper and lower anchors 2218, 2220 therein. In some embodiments, the spacer 2200 includes a pair of upper recesses 2224, 2226 that serve as a curved track or guide for the upper anchor 2218 and a pair of lower recesses 2234, 2236 that serve as a curved track or guide for the lower anchor 2220.

FIG. 37 depicts a side perspective view of a carrier 2250 in accordance with some embodiments. From this view, one can see how the carrier 2250 includes an upper retainer 2252 for retaining an upper anchor 2218 and a lower retainer 2254 for retaining a lower anchor 2220. In addition, the carrier 2250 includes an opening 2255 that extends along its longitudinal axis. The opening 2255 is configured to receive the trailing end 2268 of the rotator 2260 (shown in FIG. 38 ), thereby securing the rotator 2260 to the carrier 2250.

FIG. 38 depicts a side perspective view of a rotator in accordance with some embodiments. From this view, one can see how the rotator 2260 comprises a leading end 2269 and a trailing end 2268. Adjacent the leading end 2269 is a lead wall 2269 comprising an upper wing 2265 and a lower wing 2267. The wings 2265, 2267 of the lead wall 2269 are capable of rotating into locking slots 2208 (shown in FIG. 41 ) of the spacer 2200, thereby securing the rotator 2260 and carrier 2250 to the spacer 2200. Adjacent the lead wall 2269 are engagement walls 2264, 2266. Upon rotation of the rotator, the engagement walls 2264, 2266 are configured to abut the deployed anchors 2218, 2220 (as shown in FIG. 43 ), thereby advantageously reducing the risk of inadvertent back out of the anchors 2218, 2220. The trailing end 2268 of the rotator 2260 is capable of being inserted into the carrier 2250, thereby securing the rotator 2260 to the carrier 2250.

FIG. 39 depicts a top perspective view of an anchor in accordance with some embodiments. The anchor shown in FIG. 39 is an upper anchor 2218, though one skilled in the art will appreciate that the lower anchor 2220 includes similar features. In particular, the upper anchor 2218 and lower anchor 2220 comprise curved bodies that allow them to be guided through curved recesses in the spacer 2200. As shown in FIG. 39 , the upper anchor 2218 includes a carrier hole 2228 that allows for attachment to the upper retainer 2252 of the carrier 2250. Likewise, the lower anchor 2220 includes a similar carrier hole that allows for attachment to the lower retainer 2254 of the carrier 2250.

FIG. 40 depicts the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 34 including an inserter in accordance with some embodiments. The purpose of the inserter 2290 is to attach and deliver the spacer and anchor system to a desired disc space. In some embodiments, the inserter 2290 is forked or tined. In addition, in some embodiments, the inserter 2290 is cannulated to receive one or more instruments therethrough, including the threaded sleeve 2292 shown in FIG. 41 .

FIG. 41 depicts the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 34 including an inserter and threaded sleeve in accordance with some embodiments. The purpose of the threaded sleeve 2292 is to engage the rear threaded portion 2258 of the carrier 2250, thereby providing an impaction surface for impacting and translating the carrier 2250. The threaded sleeve 2292 is optional. In other embodiments, the carrier 2250 can be impacted and translated directly via a tamp.

FIG. 42 depicts the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 34 including an inserter, threaded sleeve and key instrument prior to rotation of the rotator, in accordance with some embodiments. As shown in the figure, the carrier 2250 has been translated such that anchors 2218, 2220 attached to the carrier 2250 have been deployed. Once the anchors have been deployed, a key instrument 2294 can be delivered though the inserter 2290 and/or threaded sleeve 2292, and can be used to rotate the rotator 2260. By rotating the rotator 2260, this advantageously causes the upper wing 2265 and lower wing 2267 of the rotator 2260 to be received in locking slots 2208 (shown in FIG. 41 ), thereby securing the rotator 2260 to the spacer 2200. In addition, by rotating the rotator 2260, this advantageously causes the engagement walls 2264, 2266 of the rotator 2260 to engage the anchors 2218, 2220, thereby reducing the risk of back out of the anchors 2218, 2220.

FIG. 43 depicts the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 34 including an inserter, threaded sleeve and key instrument following rotation of the rotator, in accordance with some embodiments. From this view, one can see how the engagement walls 2264, 2266 of the rotator 2260 engage the anchors 2218, 2220, thereby reducing the risk of back out of the anchors 2218, 2220.

FIG. 44 depicts a top perspective view of the spacer and anchor system of FIG. 34 . From this view, one can see how the inserter 2290 engages the spacer and anchor system. In addition, one can see how the threaded sleeve 2292 is received in the inserter 2290. As noted above, the threaded sleeve 2292 can engage the threaded portion 2258 of the carrier 2250 (shown in FIG. 34 ), thereby providing an impaction surface to impact and translate the carrier 2250. In some embodiments, the threaded sleeve 2292 can also be used to revise and remove the carrier 2250 and anchors 2218, 2220. By providing a gripping surface, the threaded sleeve 2292 can be gripped, rotated and/or pulled, thereby helping to retract the carrier 2250 and the anchors 2218, 2220 from deployment.

Turning now to FIGS. 45-49 , an alternative spacer and anchor system is provided. Spacer 2300 is similar to spacer 2100 described with respect to FIGS. 24-29 where like elements are identified the same, with the addition of flexing tabs 2302. The flexing tabs 2302 located on the first and second side surfaces 2106, 2108 near the proximal portion 2112 of the spacer 2300 are configured to engage the carrier 2150 and lock the anchors 2118, 2120 in position (e.g., expanded/deployed position).

The flexing tabs 2302 extend from an integral, proximal end 2304 to a free, distal end 2306. Each of the flexing tabs 2302 is defined by a slot or cut-out 2308. The cut-out 2308 may be cut through the implant walls from medial to lateral in order to define the flexing tabs 2303. The slot or cut-out 2308 may be in fluid communication with the inner slot 2130 and the respective recesses 2144. The cut-out 2308 may be configured as a substantially u-shaped slot. As best seen in FIG. 48 , the cut-out 2308 extends along an upper portion 2310, a side portion 2312 substantially perpendicular to the upper portion 2310, and a lower portion 2314 substantially parallel to the upper portion 2310. The cut-out 2308 provides for the moveable free end 2306, adjacent slot side portion 2312, and for proximal end 2304 being integrally formed with the respective side walls 2106, 2108 of the spacer 2300. The cut-out 2308 may include openings 2316 (e.g., curved or semi-cylindrical openings), proximate the proximal end 2304, which are enlarged relative to the remainder of the cut-out 2308.

As best seen in FIG. 49 , each of the flexing tabs 2302 may be in the form of a tongue 2318 positioned along a plane 2320, 2322 extending along longitudinal axes of the spacer 2300. Planes 2320 and 2322 may be substantially parallel to one another in a relaxed position (e.g., when the carrier is fully inserted and the anchors 2118, 2120 are locked in position). The tongues 2318 are configured to flex outwardly from the respective planes 2320, 2322 such that the moveable free ends 2306 move away from one another when the carrier 2150 is moved from the initial, locked position (e.g., surfaces 2178, 2179) to the final, locked position (e.g., surfaces 2188, 2189). In other words, the tongues 2318 are substantially parallel to one another in the initial and final locked positioned and extend away from another (e.g., generally oblique to one another) when the carrier 2150 is translating from the initial to the final locked position. The tongues 2318 each have a hook or protruding locking surface 2135, 2137 that extend towards one another. The tongues 2318 can flex out of and back into and position as the carrier 2150 is moved. The tongues 2318 flex outwardly to accept the carrier 2150, then snap closed into the locking slots 2188, 2189 on the carrier 2150 in order to fix the carrier 2150 to the intervertebral spacer 2300.

In a first, retracted position (shown in FIG. 45 ), the anchors 2118, 2120 are retracted and the carrier 2150 is inserted such that the hooks 2135, 2137 are positioned within the initial locking surfaces 2178, 2179 of the carrier. In a second, deployed position (shown in FIG. 46 ), the anchors 2118, 2120 are deployed and the carrier is fully inserted such that the hooks 2135, 2137 are positioned within the final locking surfaces 2188, 2189. The posts 2162, 2164 protruding from the superior and inferior surfaces of the carrier 2150 engage with the anchors 2118, 2120 and control their anterior-posterior position.

If desired, the anchors 2118, 2120 may be retracted after they have been deployed. The threaded portion 2158 of the carrier 2150 allows the inserter 2180 to connect to the carrier 2150 allowing the user to retract the anchors 2118, 2120. To engage the carrier 2150, a threaded tube 2184 may be installed onto the carrier 2150. The tube 2184 may have a chamfered tip to engage the ramps 2324 on the flexing tabs 2302 of the spacer 2300. When threaded fully onto the carrier 2150, the tube 2180 has spread the flexing tabs 2302 of the spacer 2300 enough to disengage the lock 2188, 2189 and allow the carrier 2150 and anchors 2118, 2120 to return to the initial position (protrusions 2135, 2137 positioned within surfaces 2178, 2179) by pulling on the threaded tube 2180.

As shown in FIGS. 45-49 , the spacer 2300 may also include one or more lateral windows 2330 positioned near the distal portion 2110 of the spacer 2300. The lateral windows 2330 may extend through the first and second side surfaces 2106, 2108 and into fluid communication with the through hole 2114 formed through the superior surface 2102 and the inferior surface 2104. The through hole 2114 and lateral windows 2330 may be configured to receive bone growth material, such as graft material.

The integrated anchor and spacer systems allow for fixation of the spacer to adjacent vertebrae. After the implant is placed between vertebral bodies, the fixation anchors can be deployed, which can help to stabilize the position of the spacer and/or reduce the chance of movement or implant migration.

It is to be understood that the disclosure describes a few embodiments and that many variations of the invention can easily be devised by those skilled in the art after reading this disclosure and that the scope of the present invention is to be determined by the following claims. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for stabilizing adjacent vertebral bodies comprising the steps of: providing an implantable system comprising: a spacer having a superior surface, an inferior surface, a first side, a second side, a distal portion and a proximal portion, the first and second sides defining a slot therebetween in the proximal portion, the spacer further having a through hole that extends through the superior surface to the inferior surface, the first and second sides respectively having first and second superior recessed tracks laterally facing each other, and respectively having third and fourth inferior recessed tracks laterally facing each other; a first anchor having corresponding first and second tracks adapted to ride on the first and second superior recessed tracks as a guide for deployment of the first anchor into a vertebral body; a second anchor having corresponding first and second tracks adapted to ride on the third and fourth inferior recessed tracks as a guide for deployment of the second anchor into a vertebral body; and a carrier carrying the first and second anchors, and positioned within the slot, wherein when the carrier translates in the slot, the carrier locks with the spacer while simultaneously deploying the first and second anchors into the vertebral bodies; positioning the implantable system between adjacent vertebral bodies.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the carrier has a post and the first anchor has a corresponding carrier hole to receive the post.
 3. The method of claim 1, wherein the carrier includes: a front portion adapted to be received in the slot; and a threaded back portion adapted to be threaded to a removal tool.
 4. The method of claim 3, further including the removal tool adapted to be threaded to the threaded back portion of the carrier to splay the first and second sides.
 5. The method of claim 1, wherein the first and second sides respectively have first and second tongues, each having an integral end and a free end and the free end has a protruding locking surface.
 6. The method of claim 1, wherein the carrier includes a pair of initial locking surfaces and a pair of final locking surfaces.
 7. The method of claim 5, wherein in a retracted position, the protruding locking surface of the first and second tongues engage the pair of initial locking surfaces, and when moved to the deployed position, the protruding locking surfaces of the first and second tongues engage the pair of final locking surfaces.
 8. The method of claim 1, wherein: the proximal portion of the spacer includes first and second tongues with each having an integral end and a free end; and the free ends of the first and second tongues are moveable to engage the carrier and lock the first and second anchors in a deployed position.
 9. A method for stabilizing adjacent vertebral bodies comprising the steps of: providing a spacer having a superior surface, an inferior surface, a first side, a second side, a distal portion and a proximal portion, the first and second sides defining a slot therebetween in the proximal portion, the first and second sides respectively having first and second tongues each defined by a cut-out, each tongue having an integral end and a free end, wherein the spacer includes a through hole that extends through the superior surface to the inferior surface, the first and second sides respectively having first and second superior recessed tracks laterally facing each other, and respectively having third and fourth inferior recessed tracks laterally facing each other; a first anchor having corresponding first and second tracks adapted to ride on the first and second superior recessed tracks as a guide; a second anchor having corresponding first and second tracks adapted to ride on the third and fourth inferior recessed tracks as a guide; and a carrier positioned within the slot and between the first and second anchors, wherein the free ends of the first and second tongues are moveable to engage the carrier and lock the first and second anchors in a deployed position; and positioning the spacer between adjacent vertebral bodies.
 10. The method of claim 9, wherein the cut-out is in fluid communication with the slot.
 11. The method of claim 9, wherein the cut-out is a substantially u-shaped slot.
 12. The method of claim 9, wherein the first and second tongues each comprise a protruding locking surface at the free end.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein the carrier includes a pair of initial locking surfaces and a pair of final locking surfaces.
 14. The method of claim 13, wherein in a retracted position, the protruding locking surface of the first and second tongues engage the pair of initial locking surfaces, and when moved to a deployed position, the protruding locking surfaces of the first and second tongues engage the pair of final locking surfaces.
 15. The method of claim 9, wherein the carrier includes an upper post and a lower post each for receiving a respective anchor.
 16. The method of claim 15, wherein the first anchor includes a carrier hole for attachment to the upper post of the carrier and the second anchor includes a carrier hole for attachment to the lower post of the carrier.
 17. The method of claim 9, wherein the first and second superior tracks are curved. 